Late Reviews

Here’s some quick-shot reviews that should have been posted a long time ago, but I’m so damn self-involved... Anyways, better late and backdated...

Revenge Of The Sith

This movie managed to do what I didn’t think would be possible in one film–tie together Episodes II and IV. Let me be clear: I’m not a hater of the new trilogy. I rather like it. Still, I think this movie is on par with the original trilogy. It’s at least better than Jedi.

Sure, there’s cheesy parts (Vader saying "Noooooooo!!!!" comes to mind). But that final lava scene lived up to every expectation I’ve had since I was a little boy. When a cloaked Vader is killing all the Separatists... man, that was cool. His screaming at Obi-Wan as he lies there, legless and burning... awesome. Yes, the romance stuff is still trite. Yes, Anakin seems to switch to the dark side rather quickly. SO WHAT. Still a tremendous amount of fun, and now I want Episodes VII-IX.

Batman Begins

One of the best superhero films ever. The casting is top-notch–Bale is the best Batman/Bruce Wayne yet. Keaton was a great Batman, but a terrible Bruce. Val was the opposite–good Bruce, bad Bats. Clooney had the potential to be good at both, but had the worst script ever.

Michael Caine and Gary Oldman in particular were standouts, and Morgan Freeman and Liam Neeson can always be counted on. I’m in love with Katie Holmes (despite her Tom Cruise fiasco) so I’ll refrain from commenting on her. Cillian Murphy is one to watch–check out 28 Days Later or the upcoming Red Eye.

The movie had a welcome serious tone, a darkness missing since Burton but with a grittyness that the franchise has never had before. I eagerly await the next one, assuming they have the same creative team.

Fantastic Four

Not one of the best superhero films ever.

Mr. and Mrs. Smith

Much more entertaining that I thought it would be. Sure, the movie focuses on two ridiculously beautiful people trying to kill each other, but that’s what makes it fun. The movie has a healthy balance of serious action and off-kilter comedy–big props to Doug Liman for his direction (you’ve probably already seen his Bourne Identity but be sure to check out Go).

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

I was annoyed when I heard they were remaking this perfect classic film. Then two words instantly changed my mind: Burton. Depp. I was sold. And I was not disappointed. I giggled incessantly at the mad world Burton created, and the insane performance by Johnny Depp. Oh, and the Oompah Loompahs are fantastic (and yes, they sing and dance). I dare say this version is even better than the Gene Wilder version. That’s right. I said it.

Must Love Dogs

Are you kidding me? I didn’t go see this crap. I don’t live with Nancy anymore...
Although, I have to admit that Cusack looks good in it...